Mr. Amitabh Kant, former NITI Aayog CEO has been appointed as the new G-20 Sherpa as India takes over the G-20 presidency later in 2022. He replaces the Union Minister Mr. Piyush Goyal. Mr. Amitabh Kant was NITI Aayog CEO for almost six years, completing his extended term in June 2022.
G-20 is a grouping of 19 major developed and emerging economies and the European Union. Its members account for more than 80% of global of global trade and 60% of the global population. India will take over the G-20 presidency from Indonesia on December 2.
The Sherpas are in charge of carrying out negotiations and building consensus among leaders, and are also responsible for convening working groups, and special events throughout the year.There was a need for a full time Sherpa since India is taking over the G-20 presidency this year. Mr. Goyal is currently minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles. He is also the leader of the Rajya Sabha.
